BOURKES PARROT

Bourke’s parrot is a small parrot species belonging to the family Psittaculidae. It is native to Australia, specifically found in the arid and semi-arid regions of central and eastern parts of the country.

It is a beautifully coloured bird with a soft, pastel plumage. It has a pinkish-brown body, pale blue to lavender crown and belly, and a yellowish abdomen. Males typically have a brighter and more vibrant coloration compared to females.

These parrots are social birds and are often seen in small flocks or pairs. They have a strong bond with their mates and are monogamous, usually forming long-term partnerships. They also engage in preening and feeding rituals to strengthen their pair bonds.

Bourke’s parrots are primarily found in open, arid habitats such as savannas, shrublands, and grasslands. They have adapted to survive in these dry environments, often relying on water sources within their range. They are also known to seek shelter in tree hollows or abandoned nests.

Bourke’s parrots primarily feed on a variety of grass seeds, including those from spinifex grass. They also consume other plant materials like berries, fruits, and blossoms.

Bourke’s parrots breed during the warmer months of the year, typically from September to December in their native range. The female usually lays 3-6 eggs in a nest cavity, which is often located in a tree hollow. Both parents take part in incubating the eggs and raising the chicks.

Sadly while they have a relatively wide range, their populations have been impacted by habitat loss and degradation.